Vatican excommunicates Society of Saint Pius X before Pope Leo XIV's France visit

The Vatican’s recent excommunication of followers of the Society of Saint Pius X has reignited a longstanding feud within the Roman Catholic Church, just before Pope Leo XIV’s state visit to France. The move has drawn attention to the tensions that have existed between the Holy See and the ultra‑conservative splinter group.

The Society of Saint Pius X has built an extensive network of schools and has attracted thousands of followers across France, making its presence a significant factor in the ecclesiastical landscape during the papal visit.

The Vatican’s excommunication of the Society of Saint Pius X followers and the presence of thousands of followers in France highlight the ongoing feud ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s state visit.